ARF Medication Management Flashcards

When assisting a resident with medication, which action should ARF staff always perform first?

Answer: Verify the resident's identity and compare the medication to the MAR

Before providing any medication assistance, staff must verify the resident's identity and confirm the medication matches what is recorded on the MAR.

What must an ARF do when a new prescription is received for a resident?

Answer: Update the MAR and review the new medication with the resident and prescriber's instructions

When a new prescription is received, the MAR must be updated and staff must review the medication instructions from the prescriber before assisting with administration.

What should ARF staff do if they observe a resident displaying signs of a possible medication side effect?

Answer: Document the observation and notify the prescribing physician promptly

Suspected medication side effects must be documented and the prescribing physician notified promptly so the treatment plan can be evaluated.

Under ARF regulations, which medications must be counted and reconciled upon each shift change?

Answer: Controlled substances must be counted and reconciled between outgoing and incoming staff

Controlled substances must be counted and reconciled by outgoing and incoming staff at each shift change to prevent diversion or error.

What action must an ARF take when a medication error occurs?

Answer: Document the error, notify the physician, and report to DSS as required

Medication errors must be documented, the physician notified, and DSS reported to as required by regulation.

Can an ARF resident self-medicate without staff assistance?

Answer: Yes, if the resident's physician authorizes and the service plan reflects self-medication capability

Residents may self-medicate if their physician authorizes it and their service plan reflects their capability and approval to do so.